The reaction between nitrogen and hydrogen to produce ammonia is described by the equilibrium reaction 3 H 2 + N 2 − ⇀ ↽ − 2 NH 3 What substances are present in the reaction mixture when equilibrium has been obtained? NH + 4 NH 3 H 2 N 2

The question correctly reads:

The reaction between nitrogen and hydrogen to produce ammonia is described as an equilibrium reaction. What substances are present in the reaction mixture when equilibrium has been obtained?

3H2 + N2 = 2NH3

N2

H2

NH4+

NH3

N2,H2,NH3

Explanation:

Equilibrium is said to be attained when the rate of forward reaction equals the rate of reverse reaction. That is forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate. The rate at which reactants are reformed, is the same rate at which products are formed. Hence at equilibrium both reactants and products are present in the reaction mixture. This implies that nitrogen, hydrogen and ammonia are all present in the reaction mixture at equilibrium.